Salem’s Lot — Reader’s Companion & Study Guide

Writer Ben Mears returns to the small Maine town of Jerusalem’s Lot, where he spent part of his childhood. But something sinister is taking hold of the community.

As residents begin to disappear or undergo disturbing changes, Ben and a small group of allies gradually confront the horrifying truth: vampirism is spreading through the town.

At the centre of the growing darkness are the mysterious Marsten House and the arrival of Kurt Barlow, whose presence threatens to transform Jerusalem’s Lot forever.

This comprehensive Coleman’s Notes® Reader’s Companion helps readers explore one of Stephen King’s most celebrated early novels, its extensive cast, vampire mythology, themes and increasingly terrifying transformation of an ordinary American town.

Inside the guide: A detailed plot summary; chapter-by-chapter reading companion covering the Prologue, 15 chapters and Epilogue; in-depth character analysis; vampires, victims and survivors reference guide; Ben Mears; Susan Norton; Mark Petrie; Father Callahan; Kurt Barlow and Richard Straker; the history and significance of Marsten House; Jerusalem’s Lot as a community; Dracula and vampire mythology; faith, fear and the nature of evil; themes, context and King’s inspiration; the ending explained; 25 thought-provoking book-club discussion questions; and Quick Recall.

Particular attention is given to the way King turns Jerusalem’s Lot itself into a central presence in the novel, showing how an apparently ordinary community can gradually succumb to something ancient and destructive.

Ideal for readers who have completed ’Salem’s Lot, are returning to Stephen King’s work, or want a convenient reference for understanding its characters, mythology and themes.

Full spoiler warning: This companion discusses the complete novel, including major character deaths and the ending.

Individual guide — £5.95
Complete Stephen King Collection — £32.95

READ IT • REMEMBER IT • DISCUSS IT

Coleman’s Notes® is an independent publication and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Stephen King, the publisher or rights holders.